Fajr Rocket (MLRS) Artillery

Fajr Rocket (MLRS) Artillery

***The Following is a Modified Excerpt from "Iranian Military Capability 2011"***

Fajr-3
The Fajr-3 is a 240 mm self-propelled MLRS system originally derived from the North Korean M-1985. Some sources say mass production began in 1990 while others say it was first tested in 1996. This might be explained by the difference with producing a copy, and then later, testing a newer generation of the weapon.

Fajr-3 (Modlex)

The weapons system was first mounted on the original 6x6 Izuzu used by the North Koreans where the Mercedes-Benz 2631 has become the standard for newer generation models.

The MLRS itself consists of two banks of six tubes each. The rockets can be fired in a salvo, in 48-96 seconds, or individually. It is a safe bet that the same fire-control system used in the Fajr-5, described below, is also used in the Fajr-3.

The 240 mm rockets have a 90 kg warhead, usually HE, HE-FRAG, but can likely carry submunitions, incendiary, smoke and chemical payloads as well; they have a maximum range of 43 km. They are spin and fin stabilized, but unguided.

The inaccuracies inherent in an unguided rocket system combined with small number of rockets that can be launched in a salvo prevent the Fajr-3 from being a truly effective system in the tactical role.

Specifications: Fajr-3
Caliber: 240 mm
Weight: 407 kg
Length: 5.2 m
Max Range: 43 km
Warhead: 90 kg

Fajr-5
The Fajr-5 uses the same mount as the Fajr-3, with the newer generation using the Mercedes-Benz 2631 truck.

Fajr-5: Note the data-link antenna (Sejil.ir)

Also added is a networking system that enabled data-links within and between batteries. Another feature added is remote fire capability under which the command vehicle can link all Fajr-5's within a 20 km range.

However, most interestingly is the reported installation of a naval surface search radar which indicates Iran might use the MLRS in an anti-shipping role. At the very least, they appear to be able to link together with other anti-ship assets like the Noor or the Raad and share their targets.

The rockets have a 175 kg warhead, which can likely carry a variety of payloads including HE, HE-FRAG, incendiary, smoke or sub-munitions. They are spin stabilized, but unguided.

The inaccuracies inherent in an unguided rocket system combined with small number of rockets that can be launched in a salvo prevent the Fajr-5 from being a truly effective system.

Specifications: Fajr-5
Caliber: 333 mm
Weight:: 915 kg
Length: 6.48 m
Max Range: 75 km
Warhead: 175 kg

Specification: Fajr-3/5 Truck-Mounted Launcher
Length: 10 m
Height: 3.34 m
Width: 2.5 m
Max Speed: 60 km/h
Barrels: 12
Elevation 0 - 57
Traverse: 90 left - 100 right